Do you wake up with a dull headache, a tight jaw, or sensitive teeth? You aren’t alone. Many people spend their nights unconsciously grinding or clenching their teeth—a condition known as Bruxism.
While you sleep, your jaw can exert up to 250 lbs of pressure, which is enough to crack enamel and damage expensive dental work. At Finesse Dentistry & Implant Center, we believe the best way to treat dental issues is to prevent them before they start. A custom-fitted night guard is your first line of defense.
🛑 Signs You Might Be a “Night Grinder”
Many people don’t realize they have bruxism until they are informed by a partner or their dentist notices the signs. Look for these common symptoms:
- Morning Headaches: Dull, constant headaches or tension that is present when you wake up.
- Jaw Pain (TMJ): Soreness, clicking, popping, or stiffness in the jaw joint or face.
- Worn or Chipped Teeth: Flattened chewing surfaces, fractures, or chips in your teeth.
- Increased Tooth Sensitivity: Pain when consuming hot or cold foods due to worn-down enamel.
- Damaged Dental Work: Repeatedly cracked or broken fillings, crowns, or veneers.
✨ The Benefits of a Custom Night Guard
While “boil-and-bite” guards are available at drugstores, they are often bulky, fall out at night, and can even worsen jaw alignment. A custom-made guard from Finesse Dentistry offers:
| Benefit | How the Guard Helps |
| Prevents Tooth Damage | It acts as a cushioned shield, absorbing the tremendous force of grinding and clenching (which can be up to 250 lbs!) to protect your enamel, fillings, and natural tooth structure. |
| Reduces Pain & Tension | By holding your jaw in a relaxed, comfortable position, it lessens muscle contraction in the jaw and temples, reducing the frequency and severity of morning headaches and TMJ discomfort. |
| Protects Existing Restorations | It shields expensive dental work, such as crowns, bridges, and veneers, from the destructive forces of nightly bruxism. |
| Improves Sleep Quality | For you and your partner! By preventing the physical act of grinding, it promotes deeper muscle relaxation and can eliminate the disturbing noise of teeth grating. |
🔬 Types of Custom Night Guards: A Tailored Solution
We offer different types of custom guards based on the severity of your bruxism and whether you primarily clench or grind. Your dentist will recommend the best fit for your needs:
1. Soft Night Guards (Mild Support)
- Best For: Patients with mild bruxism.
- Features: Made from a flexible, rubber-like material. They are the most comfortable option for initial wear and are often recommended for those with no significant existing jaw pain.
2. Hard Night Guards (Heavy Duty)
- Best For: Patients with moderate to severe bruxism (heavy grinding) and those with TMJ/TMD symptoms.
- Features: Made from rigid acrylic, they are the most durable and resistant to wear. This guard provides superior stability for the jaw joint and prevents the muscles from fully contracting, offering the highest level of protection.
3. Dual-Laminate Night Guards (The Best of Both Worlds)
- Best For: A popular middle ground for patients with moderate grinding.
- Features: These guards feature a soft inner layer for comfort against the teeth and gums, and a hard outer shell for durability and protection against grinding forces. They offer a balance of comfort and longevity.
Ready to Wake Up Pain-Free?
Don’t let bruxism wear down your smile or your quality of life. At Finesse Dentistry & Implant Center, Dr. Jay Lee and our team can help you find the perfect fit to protect your dental health for years to come.
Book Your Consultation Today
📍 Visit Us: 183 Essex St, Boston, MA
📞 Call or Text: 617-286-6515
✉️ Email: support@FinesseBoston.com
💻 Learn More: FinesseBoston.com